By Eric Collymore
A long-cherished dream to establish a dedicated home for karate in Guyana has been realized with the official opening of the Guyana Karate College Dojo.
This significant milestone was celebrated with the inauguration of the Dr. Frank Woon-A-Tai Budokan, a state-of-the-art facility that will serve as a central hub for karate practitioners in the country.
The dojo, named in honor of Master Frank Woon-A-Tai, represents the culmination of a decade-long project.
It will accommodate the 12 affiliated clubs of the Guyana Karate College and function as the headquarters for the International Daigaku (IKD) in Guyana.
Prime Minister Brigadier Mark Phillips spoke on behalf of President Irfaan Ali, highlighting the importance of the new dojo in advancing the sport of karate.
He underscored the broader impact of sports in community development and the role of such facilities in fostering well-rounded individuals.
Master Frank Woon-A-Tai expressed excitement about the dojo’s opening, revealing that members of the IKD have already shown keen interest in coming to Guyana to train at the new facility.
The project, which began in Liliendaal in 2010, faced various challenges over the years but received a crucial boost in 2022 with a government grant of 10 million dollars.
In addition to the dojo’s opening, Guyana is also hosting the International Karate Daigaku’s 4th annual World Cup at the national gymnasium, with karatekas from around the world arriving to compete.
The tournament will commence tomorrow at 9 a.m.